How common is b12 deficiency?

B12 deficiency - taking treatment but symptons not improving?

• I was diagnosed with a B12 deficiency almost 10mths ago. I have been on monthly injections since then. I still get the symptoms so I went back for another blood test and my doctor's surgery has now told me that my level of B12 was high but that was ok. My problem is that my symptoms are back and my legs are so heavy and tight that I am now starting to think that there is something else causing this problem. I was injecting myself day and night for the past week as my legs were so uncomfortable. It's not like pins and needles as most people describe. It's more like a heavy ache or like restless leg syndrome but 10 times worse or like my muscles are so tight they ache or that I have worked out for the first time in years. Heavy heavy aching legs. I am waiting for my doctor to recommend what I should do next as this B12 treatment does not seem to be working although my level of b12 has gone up to a high level now. If my problem is B12 deficiency and my level is now high then I must have something else going on. Any ideas?

• Answer:

  If your problem was of B12 deficiency it might be that you are not absorbing this vitamin. You might be having other deficiencies which hinders the absorption of B12. Insufficient production of hydrochloric acid or intrinsic factor for example, inhibits the absorption of B12. Since you cannot at this point pinpoint the exact reason for your uncomfortable feeling, it is best to check on your diet. Are you really having a balanced diet? Another area you could pay attention to is, instead of just using B12 vitamins, why not include a more comprehensive supplement that will cover a wide area of nutrition? You may get more information about a balanced diet at http://wealth-health-longlife.blogspot.com/. This blog also shares information on "why take supplements on a daily basis?" Be sure to include whole eggs, herring, kidney, liver, mackerel, milk, dairy products, and sea foods in your diet. The consumption of sea vegetables such as dulse, kelp, kombu, and nori is also helpful. If you are on medication, these sometimes creates a B12 problem.